Tuesday, May 23, 2017

New Delhi: The Centre defended its proposal to double the notice period from six months for pilots quitting their jobs and said it would bring stability to the market.

“Globally, there has been a situation where pilots have been difficult to retain for companies,” Minister of State Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha told The Hindu. “Since air service is so important in India, we wanted to ensure that there is market stability and we think this will lead to strong market stability.”

Mr. Sinha was confident that the proposal would be acceptable in the market and said the government will go through a consultation process with pilots, who have opposed the move.

“Our understanding is that it will be well received in the market place. We have to see how it plays out in the longer run,” he said.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had issued draft rules on May 15 proposing a notice period of one year for airline commanders, up from six months at present. In case of co-pilots, the notice period will remain six months after quitting their jobs.
23/05/17 Somesh Jha/The Hindu